Take Control of Social Networking

Security Steps:

 

Protect Yourself

• 1. Spyware Protection
• 2. Secure Passwords
• 3. Social Networking
• 4. Phishing Tips

 

Protect Your Computer

• 5. Firewalls
• 6. Virus Protection
• 7. Security Updates
• 8. Back Up
• 9. Shop for Security related items

 

Take Control Contest

 

Home

In a nutshell:

• If you use social networks, be aware that what you post may be misinterpreted or could even cause harm to your reputation. Photos, videos, and information you share through these networks are potentially available to the world -- friends and criminals alike.
• Never share your password with anyone or provide credit card or social security numbers -- even with online friends.
• Be aware that school administrators and even potential employers review social networking sites.

Social networking Web sites such as Facebook, MySpace, LinkedIn, micro-blogging sites such as Twitter and Tumblr, or video sharing Web sites such as You Tube or UStream, make it easy to meet people on a personal or professional level.

 

By providing personal information using blogs, chat, e-mail, or instant messaging, you can meet new friends and communicate with others who share your interests. However, digital relationships can be deceptive. Watch out for computer security dangers such as phishing schemes, spyware downloads, and Internet fraud.

 

Never share your password with anyone or provide credit card or social security numbers unless you're absolutely positive the site is secure! Remember: Information you share online is potentially available to the world—friends and strangers alike. Although social networking sites create an illusion of intimacy, they are not private. They are easily accessible not only to school administrators, potential employers, and law enforcement officials—but to scam artists and criminals.

 

If you use social networks, you should also be aware that what you post may not be appropriate, may be misinterpreted, or may cause harm to your reputation. Some individuals have been expelled from school, lost out on great job offers, or had grad school admissions withdrawn because of pictures or statements they posted. Others have become the victims of stalking, identity theft, or other crimes.

 

Learn more about social networking and how you can protect yourself: